Obstacles. Why do we have them? What are they? How do we overcome them?
"The world's opinion is that if you can't crawl under an obstacle, then try to climb over, but I say you should start by going over". This is a quote from Rabbi Shmuel of Lubavitch, whose birthday is today (born 1834).
If you were to walk into an equestrian arena, the sight is slightly puzzling. Why don't the horses simply walk around the obstacles? And for what reason were they put there in there in the first place? It would be a much cleaner look and ride without these contraptions prominently placed in traffic's direct path.
But the truth is, that these very obstacles help the majestic breed realize it's potential and power, soaring gracefully over the poles, mane flowing in the air. The hurdles no longer a deterrent, rather they bring out the very best in the thoroughbred. Springboards to perform, catalysts to launch the horses to a different plane.
Coming from Passover, the Hebrew name Pesach actually means leaping over. We were imbued with the ability to rise above, to tap into an elevated experience. To spring and vault over and beyond the challenges that confront us. When navigating the course of life in this manner, we can soar majestically above any hurdle. Suddenly, we find this inborn energy, spreading our wings to fly and experience the world from a higher vantage point.
Rabbi Shmuel (known as the Maharash) would sing a stirring melody expressing this idea. Here is a beautiful version by world-renowned pianist Yaron Gershovsky.
When a challenge is staring you in the face, instead of trying to navigate it's threatening presence, take the opportunity to soar.
ב"ה